They wrapped themselves in Australian flags, plastered their faces in flag tattoos and munched on lamingtons - but one Aussie tradition repeatedly got the snub.
"They're turning their noses up at the Vegemite, but they want the Tim Tams," said Ronelle Peardon from her Everything Aussie Festival stall.
The Bulli resident removed the yeast extract spread from many of her Aussie snack packs after World Youth Day pilgrims commented that yes, they had tried it, but no, they didn't fancy it.
Catholic pilgrims of all ages and nationalities converged on Lang Park on Saturday as part of the Wollongong festivities before heading to Sydney for the main event.
The festival gave the visitors an induction into Australian culture.
It was almost like Australia Day, but without the beer.
Instead they had Pilgrim Passports around their necks and the signature red and orange backpacks. Even nuns strapped them across the back of their habits.
The WYD 2008 official merchandise stall offered T-shirts reading, 'Does this shirt make me look Catholic?'
Better though was the orange shirt worn by Jakob Bond, 13, of Wollongong.
His mother, a WYD organiser, found him a T-shirt that read: Pope My Ride.
Jakob was enjoying the festival with his dad.
"It's cool. I'm going to the big event in Sydney. It's good to meet people from all over the world," he said.
One stall offered a chance to make your own fairy food, with coloured icing and sprinkles. Or you could buy some ready-made from the young man standing on a milk crate, with a sign around his neck hawking fairy cakes while he swayed to the live R&B singer on stage.
Former Australian Idol contestant Joseph Gatehau was followed by a large entourage of Nigerian pilgrims engaging in a rousing gospel-style choir performance.
Attendees were reminded of the event's purpose when the men and women erupted into a loud Praise the Lord, before turning the stage into a pumping dance floor while African pop blasted the park.
Michaela Moser, of Italy, enjoyed holding a bearded dragon.
"It's a little bit interesting because it's not such a beautiful animal as the kangaroo and koala, but it's good to hold," Michaela said.
"I want to hold the koala," she added, moments before squealing in delight as the animal minder brought the koala over for a pat.
The Catholic Diocese of Wollongong hosted the Lang Park event.
Spokeswoman Rosita O'Keefe said the turn-out was phenomenal.
"It's an absolutely thrilling turn-out. The weather couldn't have been better. We had people arriving at 10.30 when we were setting up, they were so excited," she said. "They're starting to mix now and get to know each other."
Ms O'Keefe said the pilgrims loved the sheep shearing and the indigenous dancers.
"The Bishop is walking around with a huge smile on his face. He's being mobbed like a rock star."
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